Canadian triathlete Tyler Mislawchuk vomited shortly after finishing the men’s triathlon in the River Seine at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Despite the French government’s €1.4 billion effort to clean the river, high pollution levels had initially delayed the event. Concerns about water safety lingered even after the triathlon proceeded, with Mislawchuk’s incident fueling speculation about the water quality.
The triathlon, involving a 1.5km swim, 40km bike ride, and 10km run, is known for its intensity, which, coupled with the heat, could have contributed to Mislawchuk’s condition. USA’s Seth Rider had even resorted to building up his immunity by exposing himself to E.coli, highlighting the athletes’ apprehensions.
Le #Triathlon ça demande de sacrés efforts ?? pic.twitter.com/0Ajve53sxr
— Alex R (@TwDead95) July 31, 2024
Video: X/@TwDead95
Experts warn that swimming in polluted water can lead to gastrointestinal issues, eye and skin infections, and respiratory illnesses. The situation has sparked debate on whether alternative venues like Vaires-sur-Marne should be used for future events to ensure athlete safety and maintain the integrity of the competition.
The incident underscores the challenges of hosting safe Olympic events in urban waterways and the need for rigorous health and safety measures to protect athletes.
